With consumers demanding more from companies when it comes to sustainability, there has also been an increase in false environmental claims.
The ACCC recently launched two internet sweeps to identify misleading environmental and sustainability marketing claims and fake or misleading online business reviews.
At least 200 companies will be reviewed across several categories including household products and appliances, food and drink packaging, cosmetics, clothing and footwear.
“As consumers become increasingly interested in purchasing sustainable products, there are growing concerns that some businesses are falsely promoting their environmental or green credentials,” ACCC deputy chair Delia Rickard says.
“Misleading claims about products or services undermine consumer trust and confidence in the market.”
At the same time, the ACCC will conduct a separate internet sweep targeting fake or misleading online reviews and testimonials.
At least 100 businesses will be reviewed in this initial sweep, targeting areas such as household appliances, home improvement, kitchenware, health products as well as furniture and bedding.
“We are looking to identify businesses, review platforms or sectors where there is a pattern of misleading online reviews and testimonials that have the potential to cause significant consumer or small business harm. Both positive and negative reviews and testimonials—including those that are incentivised—can be false or misleading, particularly if they are presented as impartial but are not,” Rickard adds.
